This article explores heterogeneity as fundamental to learning. Inspired by Bakhtin's notion of heteroglossia, a design team consisting of an experienced classroom teacher and 2 researchers investigated how a class of 3rd and 4th graders came to understand disciplinary points of view on heat, heat transfer, and the particulate nature of matter.…

Teachers and administrators are faced with a basic question when planning for a school year: how should the students be grouped when coming to school? Should students of similar age be together or should students be assigned to multi-age classrooms at the elementary school level? If the multi-age method is chosen, how will academic progress be…

This study investigated the engagement rates of 25 students in a mixed-age classroom of third- and fourth-graders. The time on task of the students was compared using thematic, interdisciplinary instruction and traditional, single-subject instruction. Engagement rates were determined using an engagement rate observation form, students'…

A Quality and Curriculum pilot summer school program paired teachers of remedial students, provided classroom volunteers, and arranged for teachers to attend sessions on reflection and learning in quality and curriculum each afternoon. Teachers then implemented new strategies with the summer school students. This article describes the program's…